The arrival of the first tranche of your F-16 combat aircraft will significantly improve Bulgaria's defense capabilities and strengthen security and stability in the Black Sea region. This was said by Martin McDowell, acting US ambassador to Bulgaria, during a ceremony at the Third Air Base – Graf Ignatievo on the presentation of the first eight fighters of the Bulgarian Air Force.
The ceremony marks the completion of the deliveries of aircraft under the first contract for the acquisition of F-16 Block 70 from Bulgaria, concluded in 2019, BTA recalled.
McDowell said that these fighters are a powerful symbol of the partnership between the United States and Bulgaria in the field of defense. In his words, they symbolize not only the will, but also the readiness of Bulgaria to defend its nation against any adversaries. He pointed out that in 2026 the first armored combat vehicles "Stryker" (Stryker), which will be assembled in Bulgaria, will also arrive. Together with the second batch of F-16 fighters, this will mark the continuation of the largest modernization project in Bulgarian history, the diplomat said, adding that this will also lead to growth in the Bulgarian defense industry.
According to McDowell, it is necessary for Bulgarian mechanics to continue to maintain their professional training and keep the aircraft always ready for a mission. This requires a fundamental transformation and modernization of the Bulgarian armed forces, a permanent internal reform that will ensure institutionalized support from all, including those who do not support the changes, the diplomat added.